Persistent truncus arteriosus, also referred to as PTA, is a rare congenital heart defect that affects less than 1% of babies born every year. This condition is characterized by a single large blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the lungs and the rest of the body. PTA is also known as a persistent arterial trunk and is sometimes called common arterial trunk or truncus arteriosus communis. This condition can cause various complications including heart failure, respiratory problems, and developmental delays. Treatments for PTA generally involve surgery to repair or replace the affected blood vessel.